Velocity 2X is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Velocity Ultra for PlayStation Vita, created by the talented chaps at Futurlab. This new entry into the franchise has much of the same quality content as its predecessor, but now has all-new platform sections, which add a nice change of pace to the gameplay. The story this time around---not that you'll particularly worry about Velocity's narrative as you blast down waves of foes--- revolves around Lt. Kai Tana as she goes up against the Vokh.

Velocity 2X has 50 levels spread over different locations in space, which can be read about in the extras section. As you progress through the game you unlock new abilities to enhance your endeavours, including but not limited to the quarp drive, which allows you to teleport. During the on-foot sections the controls are exactly the same as the ship sections, meaning you can learn both of them pretty easily--a handy bonus to say the least. Each time you complete a mission, you gain points based on how many hostages you save, the time it took to complete the mission, and how many of the stage's total enemies were destroyed.

This is only slightly different if the mission has both space and on-foot sections, as you can also collect crystals in the ground missions that will be added to your scoring criteria upon completion. I did have some issues with the Teledash during the on-foot stages, but this could have been my own fault, as there was a noticeable difficulty spike. Some of the missions further on in the game also introduce some fairly challenging boss fights, and most of them possess attacks that almost fill up the entire screen. As expected, each boss has a certain pattern, so once you have taken the time to learn this, they can be defeated pretty easily. Nonetheless, it’ll take a few attempts at each boss before you adapt to their repertoire.

In terms of visuals, Velocity 2X boasts some stunning-looking stages and the game is highly fast-paced, with the framerate keepnig at a steady 60fps on PS4. The result can be quite hectic, especially during boss fights. Futurlab has also implemented some eyeball-popping particle effects, and with the vibrant colour scheme, you can really see how much effort has been put into making this a sumptuous-looking shooter. Velocity 2X’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with some well-timed music as you cruise through each stage.